Category: photography

Having a digital camera with a feature to count people in a gathering without recounting a face will help to fortify modes of acquiring attendance figures for large gathering and provide exact data for records. There have been convectional methods used to know attendance in a gathering such as ticket sales. For some other gathering it is manually determined by dividing an area occupied by a crowd into sections, determining the average number of people in each section and multiplying the number of sections occupied. Aerial photography and satellites are also used for crowd counting.

These methods provide close estimation and conflict sometimes when two or more methods are used. Digital camera technology develops yearly; the technology proposed in this paper suggests adding a new feature to digital cameras, such that it can be used to count people in a gathering aside covering the event normally.

To have this feature, face detection and face recognition technology will be used. Face detection to detect human faces and count them; such that faces counted will be saved temporarily and the face recognition technology will ensure that faces counted at the time will not be counted again. This paper presents crowd count feature in details.

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General Terms Digital Camera, Computer Vision 1.

INTRODUCTION

Face detection is a computer technology that determines the locations and sizes of human faces in arbitrary images, it simply detect faces and ignores everything else. This technology is used for applications like video surveillance and image retrieval. Face detection technology is also used for computer-human interaction. [1]

This also makes it measure up for use for the crowd count feature proposed in this paper. Face recognition is a biometric identification by scanning a person’s face and matching it against a library of known faces. It is used for applications such as security systems and psychological processes. [2] The face recognition technology will compliment the face detection technology to accomplish the crowd count feature proposed here.

To achieve this crowd count feature; face detection technology will detect faces; such faces are counted and saved temporarily in a library. Since the camera will still be used for its convectional purpose, it will return to positions where it has counted faces. The face recognition system will help compare faces with those in the library to ensure that no face is recounted. Facial images will be stored temporarily to avoid count repetition; saved images are automatically deleted after that viewing session especially when figures have been computed. This feature is expected to have high accuracy since it is concerned with detecting human faces. This technology will give correct figures since its accuracy will exceed other methods of crowd counting.

The interesting part of this technology is that it will be a feature that can be enabled or disabled in coming models of digital cameras. Meaning that along with a camera’s high resolution, high zoom lens magnification and picture quality; digital video cameras will also be used to count people …

A for “Art?”Photojournalism clearly contains an aesthetic element characteristic to art. But some observers object to the idea of photojournalism as art. Journalism in general is about reporting facts. Does Art connote something artificial? Or is it simply putting style over content? If photojournalism is art, does it necessarily become more of a commodity, more “entertainment” and less “truth”? – In other words, is it appropriate to look at photos of human suffering while sipping champagne in an art gallery or lattés over a photo book? There is no short and definite answers to these questions, so let the debate rage on!B for “Black & White”This was pretty much all there was during the first hundred years of photojournalism. When color photojournalism started appearing more regularly in print, from the 1960s and onwards, it was initially met with some resentment, even accusations of vulgarity. During the 1980s photojournalism was more dominated by color photos and today, interestingly, black and white is again in, not from inevitability any longer, but as an accepted stylistic choice. An argument often heard is that black and white photos focuses the viewers attention on the content of the photo, rater than the photo itself.C for “Canon vs. Nikon”Two of the biggest camera manufacturers in the world today. Photojournalists often engage in friendly mud-throwing contests between the Canonians and Nikonians. Both camera systems are excellent though, with a big catalogue of lenses to go along and service centers located around the world.D for “Digital Photography”Digital cameras have had a profound impact on photojournalism. No more darkroom maneuvers are needed. Photos can now be delivered almost instantaneous from anywhere in the world. You don’t have to choose between color or black/white film before you shoot. And you can have 20 “rolls” of film on a memory card the size of a stamp. But in spite of all these helpful improvements, has the actual quality of photojournalism improved as a result? It has certainly led to a flooding of the photo-market, and the fear is that prices dwindle to a point where it’s no longer economically viable for many professionals to make a living of it. The line between professionals and amateurs starts to blur. E for “Eddie Adams” (1933-2004)American photojournalist who is perhaps most famous for his chocking photo of the Vietnamese police chief executing a captured Viet Cong suspect on the street of Saigon, at point-blank range (1968). The photo won Adams both a World Press Photo Award and a Pulitzer Prize, but Adams later apologized to the police chief for the damage he had done to his honor by taking the photo.F for “flickr”Pioneering web-site, allowing free online storage of images. With about 30 million users and nearly 4 billion images (numbers not confirmed), it’s probably the largest image collection in the world today. It is both loved and hated. Many of its users like to have their work seen and praised by others. …

Photography is an art of taking pictures. Some people use photography as an alternative to painting and drawing. Some also love taking pictures because it is the only way where two different events, the past and present, connect with each other. Through these pictures, the memories of the joyful moments people shared in those gone days come back to life. To be able to capture a thing or an event, it’s a must to have a camera.

Camera is a medium which records still or moving images. Since we are now in the techie world, the evolution of camera becomes more technical and produces exquisite output.

There are lots of cameras sold in the market today and more and more people pay a lot of money to buy an expensive camera to produce quality of pictures. True! Expensive camera produces quality of pictures and most photographers are using it. But for moms who do not need to buy expensive camera, I found out that there are less expensive cameras available in the market which can produce the same quality of pictures of the expensive one.

Here are some of the inexpensive cameras and these cameras has low shutter lag.

Canon PowerShot A1100IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera. This digital camera has 12.1 megapixel, with shutter speed ranges from 1/1600 to 15 seconds, has built-in speaker and has SD memory card. You can buy this for only $129.00 with free standard shipping.

Flip UltraHD Camcorder. This camera is one of the easiest-to-use camcorders in the market. It has a feature of 8GB of storage, high-definition video capture, has the ability to use a rechargeable batter pack of off-the-shelf AA batteries and High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) output. You can buy this camcorder for only $159.99.

Nikon D300 10.2 MP Digital Single-lens reflex (SLR) Camera. This Digital SLR camera has shutter that speeds up ranging from 1/8,000 to 30 seconds. You can buy this Digital SLR camera for only $549.95

These are just some of the few inexpensive cameras. When taking a picture, it is important that the camera alone cannot produce you quality and exquisite pictures. You must also explore your own creativity and don’t be afraid in experimenting your own style. Have fun taking pictures!…

A digital SLR camera is a significant investment. And if you’re going to commit to such a high-quality product, you probably want to know the benefits of ownership. With that in mind, here are some of the most significant advantages to owning a digital SLR – and how this camera can take you to the next level of digital photography.

What are the differences between a Digital SLR Camera and a Standard Digital Camera?

There are several key differences between these two types of camera that every potential buyer should know before making a purchase decision. These differences include:

· Auto-focus. Digital SLR cameras are not the place to go for automatic focus functionality. Unlike their less-expensive cousins, SLR cameras are manual focus.

· Price. Digital SLRs carry more powerful features that straight digital cameras and as such will also have a higher price tag.

· Features. As mentioned above, SLR cameras have a wide array of features geared towards the intermediate or advanced photographer. These include different lighting settings, zoom lenses, shutter speeds and more.

While the point-and-click crowd will be satisfied with less expensive digital cameras, those photographers who want to take a “step up” should consider digital SLR cameras as the next step in their hobby experience.

What are the Advantages of a Digital SLR Camera?

· Lightning fast shutter speeds. Why is a fast shutter speed important? Have you ever lost a shot with an inexpensive digital or standard camera waiting for the picture to snap? Digital SLR cameras are quick on the draw, so when that special moment happens, you’ll capture it all in glorious color.

· Multiple lens options. Digital SLR camera offers serious options for serious photographers. Most prominent among these options is the ability to add a variety of different lenses to the camera. Whether you’re shooting panoramic vistas or emotional close-ups, there’s a lens for your SLR to capture it more effectively.

· Low light photos. Digital SLR’s have the power to turn poor lighting conditions into great shots. The digital sensors in a digital SLR camera can bring vibrant images to life even when there’s not enough ambient light to go around. And the coolest part, they can do it without using a flash!

· More human control. Cameras with automatic flashes or zoom controls are a great choice for many weekend photographers. But people who need a more control are better served by Digital SLR cameras. While many of the point-and-shoot features that make digital cameras so great are available here, there is also a wealth of customizable options in SLRs that a person can control just about every aspect of their photography.

Where is the Best Place to Buy a Digital SLR Camera?

Currently, the best deals on digital SLR cameras can be found online. By knowing what you’re looking for ahead of time (do your homework!) and spending an hour or two comparison shopping, you can find a deal that outstrips almost anything found in a traditional …

Camcorder, as the name suggests is a device that combines both a video camera and a video recorder in a single unit. As compared to its previous technology that used separate devices for recording audio and video, a camcorder has a built-in recorder unit for recording both audio and video.

From the early generation of camcorder that used digital tape to store data to the more advanced ones that use non-removable media like hard disk drives to store, the camcorder has come a long way in the direction of technology and performance. The latest and sophisticated camcorders use two different storage media such as built-in HDD and memory card.

Major components:

Lens, imager and recorder are the three major components of the camcorders. Lens encompasses aperture, zoom and shutter. In a professional camcorder the lens is manually controlled for all optical functions. However, in a consumer unit it is generally controlled by the electronics of the camcorder. The prime function of lens is to gather and focus light on the imager. When the image is projected on the imager through the camera lens the light is converted to an electronic video signal. And last but not the least, it is the function of the recorder to write the video-signals to the recording medium. However, the record controlling system of the camcorders allows the user to control the device.

Classification:

The camcorders are classified as digital and analogue basing on their storage devices. The analogue components are with imager-chip. Betamax, VHS, Video8 are example of camcorders with analogue storage form. However, the digital camcorders include MiniDV, DVD, hard drive, digital8 as their memory. The digital storage allows perfect resolution of video without any colour jitter or fade. There are some camcorders using flash memory devices, small hard disks and Microdrives.

While considering the classification of camcorders according to consumer and professional aspects, the consumer camcorders emphasize on features like portability, price and ease of use. However, the professional camcorders excel in technical performance. They have many manually controlled technologies that the consumer camcorders lack despite of having ample of I/O options.

Uses of Camcorders:

Home:

Camcorders have become one of the popular gadgets in many homes like many other electronic devices. Unlike still photography a video coverage of personal celebrations like wedding, birthday and other personal events can make the memory live forever.

Media:

Any electronic media showcasing news, special events or any other live telecast can not do without camcorders. Camcorders have been proved as a feasible device to record and store events that can be telecasted from the studio later on.

Entertainment:

In many TV channels, where low budget TV shows are the target, camcorders feasibly cater to the requirements.

Politics:

The political protesters use camcorder as a useful device to make their point strong on the basis of proof. These days, even the police are using camcorders during riots or protests to track the troublemaker and take action against the real culprit.

Before taking great photos, you need to familiarize yourself with your camera and learn how to control your camera exposure, use different camera modes, flash and choose between optical or digital zoom.

Most digital cameras have both optical and digital zoom capabilities. Optical zoom is the camera lens which brings an object closer in focus while digital zoom uses in-camera software to digitally enlarge a portion of the object’s image without necessarily using the zoom lens.

Optical zoom is better for digital photography since digital zoom only enlarges the image sorrounding using a portion of the image to enlarge back to full image size. This will normally cause loss of quality making your photos look blurry. In case you want to enlarge or crop your image, use a software program such as photoshop installed on your pc, to get better control over how your final image will look.

Most digital cameras allow you to set the camera when to start using digital zoom and when not to. Constantly reading your camera manual will also come in handy giving you enough time to concentrate on your image composition, background, and your subject.

It is very vital to learn how and when to use and control your camera flash more especially when using a digital camera, since most digital cameras have an in-built flash.

Flash feature often comes in handy during bright sunlight and helps eliminate dark shadows under the eyes and chin. It also emphasizes your focus object thus making it stand out from the background.

Turning your camera flash on, helps illuminate your object in a shade, when it is backlit, or where there’s water reflecting sun’s rays on your focus object. Such bright conditions often darkens your object’s surface.

Always consider playing with your camera modes since most digital cameras have macro modes which helps with close-up shots of smaller objects or flowers. When using a macro mode setting, ensure that your camera is able to focus on your object before pressing the shutter button fully.

Digital cameras have different modes with tailor made settings suited for each camera. Feel free to use preset scene modes of your camera.…

Nokia, the worldwide leader in mobile technology had recently launched the powerful Nokia N95 in the N-series category. Another terrific N-series handset namely, the Nokia N97 is all set to make its debut shortly. Both the handsets are studded with some impeccable multimedia features. Gorgeous in looks-the Nokia N97 and the Nokia N95 are no less than mini-computers.

The Nokia N95 is a 3G smartphone. If you are an ardent lover of photography, the Nokia N95 is a better option because it has got a 5 megapixel camera with digital zoom, autofocus and flash. Carl Zeiss Optics Tessar lens ensures more crisp and brightness. The second camera ( VGA ) is really helpful in making face-to-face video calls. Music feature is nicely supplemented with a digital music player and an FM player. Other remarkable features of the Nokia N95 include voice commands, voice recording, email with attachments, document viewer, Quad Band support etc. The Nokia N95 has got great connectivity through 3G, Bluetooth, USB 2.0, Pop-Port, EDGE, HSCSD and WLAN Wi-Fi.

The soon-to-be-released Nokia N97 is a wonder gadget for you. The handset is equipped with a massive 20GB internal memory. The 5 megapixel camera with 20 x digital is capable of delivering DVD quality photographs under any light condition. Other remarkable features include 3-inch TFT-LCD touch screen display, music player with 24 hours of playback, FM radio, stereo speakers, slot for miniSD cards, Bluetooth, EDGE, 3G, MMS, embedded Java games etc.

If you are planning to buy any of these two phones, it will be wise on your part to make some online search. Online shops like mobileclub7, e2save etc. are offering very good deals on these handsets. The Nokia N97 is yet to be launched. Visiting these online shops, you can get a Nokia N97 review also. If you are more interested in buying the Nokia N95, you should make a Nokia N95 prices and tariff comparison before you resort on any deal with these online shops. …

Dedicated photo printers differ from all-purpose printers as they are designed to print photos only, as opposed to text or graphics documents in addition to photos. They are generally compact in size and lightweight, and some models even feature batteries that allow you to print without the need for an outlet.

Most photo printers, including dye-sublimation (or dye-sub) printers, are built around a thermal dye engine, though there are a few that feature inkjet technology.

For many years, dye-sublimation printers were specialist devices used in demanding graphic arts and photographic applications. The advent of digital photography led to the entry of this technology into the mainstream, forming the basis of many of the standalone, portable photo printers that surfaced in the second half of the 1990s.

The term “dye” in the name refers to the solid dyes that were used in the process instead of inks or toner. “Sublimation” is the scientific term for a process where solids (in this case, dyes) are converted into their gaseous form without going through an intervening liquid phase.

The printing process employed by true dye-sublimation printers differs from that of inkjets. Instead of spraying tiny jets of ink onto a page as inkjet printers do, dye-sublimation printers apply a dye from a plastic film.

A three-pass system (featuring solid dyes in tape form on either a ribbon or a roll) layers cyan, magenta, yellow, and black dyes on top of one another. The print head on a dye-sub printer uses tiny heaters to vapourise the dye, which permeates the glossy surface of the paper.

A clear coat is added to protect the print against ultraviolet light. Although this method is capable of producing excellent results, it is far from economical. Even if a particular image does not need any one of the pigments, that ribbon segment is still consumed.

This is the reason it is common for dye-sub printer compatible paper packs to contain a transfer film capable of producing the same number of prints. In addition, dye sublimation inks need a paper that allows the ink to remain on the surface of the paper.

Nowadays, a number of inkjet printers on the market are capable of deploying dye-sublimation techniques. The cartridges in such printers spray the ink, covering the page one strip at a time. The print head heats the inks to form a gas, controlled by a heating element that reaches temperatures of up to 500° C (higher than the average dye sublimation printer).

A big difference in the results with dye-sublimation technique is that because the dyes are applied to the paper in gas form, they do not form distinct dots with a hard edge like inkjet printers. Instead, the edges are softer and blend into each other easily. Additionally, the infusion of the gaseous dye into the paper yields a more colour-fast picture.

Comparing Dye-Sublimation Printers & Inkjet PrintersAlthough it is difficult to point out every possible advantage and disadvantage when comparing inkjet and dye-sub printers, the following …

Dedicated photo printers differ from all-purpose printers as they are designed to print photos only, as opposed to text or graphics documents in addition to photos. They are generally compact in size and lightweight, and some models even feature batteries that allow you to print without the need for an outlet. Most photo printers, including dye-sublimation (or dye-sub) printers, are built around a thermal dye engine, though there are a few that feature inkjet technology.

For many years, dye-sublimation printers were specialist devices used in demanding graphic arts and photographic applications. The advent of digital photography led to the entry of this technology into the mainstream, forming the basis of many of the standalone, portable photo printers that surfaced in the second half of the 1990s.

The term “dye” in the name refers to the solid dyes that were used in the process instead of inks or toner. “Sublimation” is the scientific term for a process where solids (in this case, dyes) are converted into their gaseous form without going through an intervening liquid phase.

The printing process employed by true dye-sublimation printers differs from that of inkjets. Instead of spraying tiny jets of ink onto a page as inkjet printers do, dye-sublimation printers apply a dye from a plastic film. A three-pass system (featuring solid dyes in tape form on either a ribbon or a roll) layers cyan, magenta, yellow, and black dyes on top of one another. The print head on a dye-sub printer uses tiny heaters to vapourise the dye, which permeates the glossy surface of the paper. A clear coat is added to protect the print against ultraviolet light. Although this method is capable of producing excellent results, it is far from economical. Even if a particular image does not need any one of the pigments, that ribbon segment is still consumed. This is the reason it is common for dye-sub printer compatible paper packs to contain a transfer film capable of producing the same number of prints. In addition, dye sublimation inks need a paper that allows the ink to remain on the surface of the paper.

Nowadays, a number of inkjet printers on the market are capable of deploying dye-sublimation techniques. The cartridges in such printers spray the ink, covering the page one strip at a time. The print head heats the inks to form a gas, controlled by a heating element that reaches temperatures of up to 500° C (higher than the average dye sublimation printer). A big difference in the results with dye-sublimation technique is that because the dyes are applied to the paper in gas form, they do not form distinct dots with a hard edge like inkjet printers. Instead, the edges are softer and blend into each other easily. Additionally, the infusion of the gaseous dye into the paper yields a more colour-fast picture.

Comparing Dye-Sublimation Printers and Inkjet Printers Although it is difficult to point out every possible advantage and disadvantage when comparing inkjet and dye-sub printers, the following …

In a world of low-priced cameras, it is good to know that are also options for people who take their photography seriously, but don’t have thousands of dollars to spend on a camera. For these photography “purists”, there are SLR Digital Cameras. SLR means Single-Reflex

Camera and the digital versions of these cameras allow the individual to take high-quality pictures using a variety of different lens types.The following are some important questions that every one considering a digital SLR camera should ask before making this exciting purchase.

Auto-Focus or Manual Focus?

Auto focus SLR cameras provide you with a tremendous amount of convenience when it comes time to snap your picture. However, there are several drawbacks to auto-focus cameras, including:

• Auto focus systems are run by electronics, which can fail you at the worst possible time• Auto focus cameras burn through batteries faster than manual focus models• Auto focus cameras can be noisy• Sometimes the lasers that control auto focus lenses see things differently than they human eye

Individuals who like additional control and customization options may wish to choose a manual focus camera. Manual focus SLR cameras allow the user to control shutter speed, aperture and the zoom focus features. Disadvantages of manual focus cameras include the steeper learning curve and the additional time it takes to properly set up each shot.

Can you auto-preview pictures with a digital SLR camera?

Yes. Digital SLR cameras offer all of the convenient features found in standard digital cameras, including the ability to preview pictures on the camera’s screen, cycle through photos and delete unwanted images and easily transfer photos onto a memory card or computer.

What are the Most Important SLR Camera Accessories to Buy?

Everyone who takes their camera on the road with them should have an extra battery always on hand. (NOTE: Be sure to keep your spare battery properly charged at all times.) Also, a neck strap helps you keep your camera handy while on the go. Finally, a tripod is a great choice for anyone who plans on taking posed or stationary pictures with their Digital SLR.

What are Gray Market Cameras?

When you a buy a Digital SLR camera online or at a traditional camera store, you will either be purchasing a gray market or warranty-covered camera. Both are the actual manufacturer’s product, but gray market cameras are generally not covered by a warranty (and are less expensive as a result).

How much do Digital SLR Cameras Cost?

Digital SLR cameras are available at a wide variety of price points, from $400 to $5000. The price of the camera depends upon the features included and the zoom capability of the lenses. Price may also be dictated by the lens package included.

How much Memory is Required?

Although the amount of memory is a personal choice, experts agree that a one gigabyte card is the most appropriate place to start. A one gigabyte memory card will hold hundreds of even the highest …